“Only the Zarboul Fits the Leg”: A Tale of Solidarity
Jabal Amel is one of Lebanon’s most influential regions, having left its mark on both nearby and distant societies. Scholars from Jabal Amel traveled to India, Persia, and North Africa, spreading their knowledge as religious figures, poets, travelers, and historians.
Among the prominent figures of today is historian Kassem Hojeij, a key authority on the folklore of Jabal Amel. Hojeij preserves the unwritten oral traditions passed down through generations, with a focus on history, archaeological sites, and popular proverbs.
When asked about the meaning of the proverb, “Only the Zarboul fits the leg,” Hojeij smiled and explained:
“This proverb is often misunderstood. It signifies the solidarity and unity of the people of Jabal Amel, emphasizing that only someone who truly knows and shares your experiences can understand your pain.”
He added:
“The proverb is akin to the Levantine saying: Only the bark knows the pain of the tree. The Zarboul refers to an old type of shoe worn by wealthy men during Ottoman times. Made of perforated leather with straps wrapped around the leg, it had a leather sole and left the toes exposed for comfort. This type of shoe has been out of use for over a century.”
